There have been some reports that some members of the Montreal Canadiens' brass have been drunk a lot lately. In related news, there are also reports that Kovalev has been offered a contract in the $7 million range, as well as the captaincy. I think both reports need to be true, or neither are.

Kovalev? Seriously? Save your money, give the kids a shot. You'll be surprised. Dumb.

This is what we can take from some of Carolina's players, now that they are out…
– Eric Staal was showing signs of being a 100-point player again in the latter stages of the season. After a monster playoff it may be a good gamble to count on him for at worst his second best season of his career next season.
– Jussi Jokinen never got a fair shake in TB. In Dallas he was considered a talented player with the best work ethic, even studying videos of the opposition. I say he bounces back to at least 55 next year.
– Chad Larose is pulling a Todd Marchant. That is to say, showing more offense than usual as he enters UFA status.
– Where did Ray Whitney go? Almost a point a game in the season, but 11 measly points and a minus-9 in the playoffs? I've been expecting a decline from him for awhile.
– Sergei Samsonov – the best player who can't score. Man that guy has moves, but he doesn't get the points. That happened in the season, too. But the coach loves him so I still think he'll flirt with 60 next  year.
– Erik Cole, was he on this team because I can't remember.
– Rod the Bod – so much for a late-season surge. He turns 39 soon, so it's safe to say that 55 points are out of reach now.
– Anton Babchuk – all that great promise disappeared in just 13 games. Still a risky pick.
– Cam Ward had a great season and solid playoffs. He has definitely arrived and could reach 40 wins next campaign.

As will often be the case throughout the summer, I had a lot to say throughout the day yesterday, so if you missed it click "next" below.

TB prospect Radek Smolenak has apparently signed to play in the KHL next year. This after finally turning his career around and giving himself a shot at the NHL.